Depression

Washington, DC

88 Depression Trials near Washington, DC

Power is an online platform that helps thousands of Depression patients discover FDA-reviewed trials every day. Every trial we feature meets safety and ethical standards, giving patients an easy way to discover promising new treatments in the research stage.

Learn More About Power
No Placebo
Highly Paid
Stay on Current Meds
Pivotal Trials (Near Approval)
Breakthrough Medication
Active on Power
The goal of this clinical trial is to learn if ABX-002 added to an existing antidepressant treatment will benefit depression symptoms in adults with moderate to severe major depressive disorder who have had an inadequate response to their antidepressant.  This is a double-blind, placebo-controlled, 2-arm, parallel-group, Phase 2 study, randomized 1:1 (ABX-002: placebo). The study will include the following stages: 1. Screening (approximately 35 days)  2. Treatment period (42 days)  3. Follow-up (2 weeks post treatment)

Trial Details

Trial Status:Recruiting
Trial Phase:Phase 2
Age:18 - 65

230 Participants Needed

The purpose of this study is to examine the efficacy, safety, and tolerability of CYB003 compared to matching placebo as adjunctive treatment in participants with MDD.
Stay on current meds
Pivotal Trial (Near Approval)

Trial Details

Trial Status:Recruiting
Trial Phase:Phase 3

220 Participants Needed

This is a phase 2, multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-arm trial to assess the efficacy, safety, and tolerability of centanafadine once-daily (QD) extended-release (XR) capsules for the treatment of adult subjects diagnosed with Major Depressive Disorder (MDD). The trial will evaluate the efficacy and safety of centanafadine QD XR capsules as monotherapy or as adjunct to the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), escitalopram.

Trial Details

Trial Status:Recruiting
Trial Phase:Phase 2
Age:18 - 65

336 Participants Needed

This is a Phase 2, single-center study to explore the efficacy, safety, and tolerability of up to two 25-mg doses of psilocybin administered at an interval of 9 to 10 weeks in patients with MDD and cancer. This two-part study will administer a fixed dose (25 mg) of psilocybin in a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled portion (Dosing Session 1) and subsequently allow rollover into an open-label portion (Dosing Session 2; fixed dose of psilocybin, 25 mg) for patients who do not achieve remission of MDD symptoms after the first dose. In Dosing Session 1, groups of two to four patients will be randomized, as a cohort, to receive either psilocybin 25 mg or niacin 100 mg (active placebo) in a group session, with each patient supported by their dedicated study therapist and monitored by a second therapist via video feed. In Dosing Session 2, all eligible participants (i.e., patients who have not achieved remission defined as MADRS \< 10 at V7) will receive psilocybin 25 mg in an open-label fashion using the group session model. The study population will include adult men and women who are 18 years of age or older and have diagnoses of both MDD and a malignant neoplasm. MDD is defined as the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th edition (DSM-5) diagnostic criteria for a single or recurrent episode of MDD without psychotic features. A diagnosis of a malignant neoplasm is defined as having a diagnostic code from C00 to C97 according to the International Classification of Diseases, 10th edition (ICD-10). Participants will be recruited through referrals from specialized psychiatric and oncology services as well as through patient self-referrals. The majority of participants will have no prior exposure to psilocybin or so-called "magic mushrooms"; however, participants with prior recreational experience with psilocybin or "magic mushrooms" are eligible.

Trial Details

Trial Status:Recruiting
Trial Phase:Phase 2

56 Participants Needed

BHV-7000 for Depression

Gaithersburg, Maryland
This trial is testing a new medication called BHV-7000 to see if it is safe and well-tolerated over several months in people with Major Depressive Disorder. The goal is to help those who suffer from severe depression by potentially offering a new treatment option.
No Placebo Group

Trial Details

Trial Status:Enrolling By Invitation
Trial Phase:Phase 2

480 Participants Needed

NBI-1070770 for Depression

Gaithersburg, Maryland
To evaluate the efficacy, safety, and tolerability of NBI-1070770 compared to placebo on improving symptoms of depression in participants with major depressive disorder (MDD).

Trial Details

Trial Status:Recruiting
Trial Phase:Phase 2
Age:18 - 65

72 Participants Needed

JNJ-89495120 for Depression

Gaithersburg, Maryland
The purpose of this study is to evaluate how well JNJ-89495120 works (anti-depressant effects) and how well it is tolerated as compared to placebo on reducing the symptoms of depression in participants with major depressive disorder (MDD).

Trial Details

Trial Status:Recruiting
Age:18 - 64

124 Participants Needed

This trial tests a mobile app designed to help military service members and veterans with mild traumatic brain injury reduce their depression. The app helps users change negative thoughts and behaviors to improve their mood. This type of therapy has been shown to be effective for various mental health issues, including depression, and can be delivered through different methods such as mobile apps.
No Placebo Group

Trial Details

Trial Status:Active Not Recruiting
Age:18 - 65

113 Participants Needed

Psilocybin for Depression

Rockville, Maryland
This trial is testing psilocybin, a substance from mushrooms, to see if it can help adults with depression who may not respond well to current treatments. Psilocybin works by affecting brain chemicals related to mood. Psilocybin has shown promise as a treatment for major depressive disorder and was designated as a breakthrough therapy by the FDA in 2019.
Pivotal Trial (Near Approval)

Trial Details

Trial Status:Recruiting
Trial Phase:Phase 3
Sex:Male

240 Participants Needed

This trial is testing whether a single injection of RE104 can help reduce depression in women who have moderate-to-severe postpartum depression. The goal is to see if this treatment works effectively. The exact way RE104 works isn't detailed, but it likely helps by affecting brain chemicals related to mood.
No Placebo Group

Trial Details

Trial Status:Active Not Recruiting
Trial Phase:Phase 2
Age:18 - 45
Sex:Female

72 Participants Needed

BHV-7000 for Bipolar Disorder

Gaithersburg, Maryland
The purpose of this study is to determine whether BHV-7000 is a safe and effective acute treatment for manic episodes in bipolar disorder I.
Pivotal Trial (Near Approval)

Trial Details

Trial Status:Active Not Recruiting

256 Participants Needed

This trial tests a nasal spray drug called BPL-003 along with counseling for people whose depression doesn't get better with usual treatments. The drug aims to quickly improve mood, and counseling helps provide emotional support.
No Placebo Group

Trial Details

Trial Status:Active Not Recruiting
Trial Phase:Phase 2

196 Participants Needed

Aticaprant for Depression

Gaithersburg, Maryland
This trial is testing if aticaprant can help adults with major depressive disorder who haven't responded well to current antidepressants. The medication works by targeting brain chemicals to improve mood and pleasure.
Pivotal Trial (Near Approval)

Trial Details

Trial Status:Recruiting
Age:18 - 64

350 Participants Needed

This trial tests a new medication in people with major depression who haven't improved with at least two other treatments. The drug works by changing brain chemicals to improve mood quickly. It has been approved for adults with difficult-to-treat depression and has been tested in various forms.

Trial Details

Trial Status:Recruiting
Age:18 - 65

90 Participants Needed

This trial is testing a new medication called COMP360 to help people with severe depression that hasn't improved with other treatments. The study involves adults aged 18 and older. Researchers want to see if a single dose of COMP360 can reduce depression symptoms when given with psychological support.
Pivotal Trial (Near Approval)

Trial Details

Trial Status:Active Not Recruiting
Trial Phase:Phase 3

255 Participants Needed

NMRA-335140 for Depression

Baltimore, Maryland
This is a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, multicenter study to evaluate the effects of NMRA-335140 (formerly BTRX-335140) on symptoms of depression in participants with Major Depressive Disorder (MDD). The study design consists of a Screening Period (up to 28 days), and a 6-week Treatment Period (during which participants will receive either NMRA-335140 or placebo). At the completion of the 6-week Treatment Period, participants who complete the study, provide informed consent, and meet the eligibility criteria may enter an open-label extension study (NMRA-335140-501).
Pivotal Trial (Near Approval)

Trial Details

Trial Status:Recruiting
Trial Phase:Phase 3
Age:18 - 65

332 Participants Needed

NMRA-335140 for Depression

Baltimore, Maryland
This trial is testing a new medication called NMRA-335140 to see if it helps people with major depressive disorder. It includes participants who have no safety concerns. The medication aims to improve mood by affecting brain chemicals.
No Placebo Group
Pivotal Trial (Near Approval)

Trial Details

Trial Status:Recruiting
Trial Phase:Phase 3
Age:18 - 65

650 Participants Needed

This trial is testing the safety and effectiveness of Cariprazine for treating depressive episodes in children and teenagers with bipolar I disorder. The goal is to find out if Cariprazine can help young people with this condition. Cariprazine is an atypical antipsychotic recently approved for the treatment of depressive episodes in adults with bipolar I disorder.
Pivotal Trial (Near Approval)

Trial Details

Trial Status:Recruiting
Trial Phase:Phase 3
Age:10 - 17

380 Participants Needed

MM120 for Depression

Baltimore, Maryland
A Phase 3 Double-blind, Placebo-controlled Study (Part A) with an Open-label Extension (Part B) Evaluating MM120 Compared to Placebo in Major Depressive Disorder - Emerge
Pivotal Trial (Near Approval)

Trial Details

Trial Status:Recruiting
Trial Phase:Phase 3

140 Participants Needed

This is a multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study in pediatric patients who are experiencing major depressive episodes (MDEs) associated with a primary diagnosis of bipolar I or bipolar II disorder as confirmed by Kiddie Schedule for Affective Disorders and Schizophrenia for School-Age Children-Present and Lifetime Version (K-SADS-PL), according to criteria of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM 5).
Pivotal Trial (Near Approval)

Trial Details

Trial Status:Recruiting
Trial Phase:Phase 3
Age:10 - 17

384 Participants Needed

Why Other Patients Applied

"I've been through a substance abuse program three times. Clearly, it's not working. I need to try something totally different and new to deal with my depression (plus alcohol usage) once and for all. I did some research on psilocybin and want to try."

QP
Depression PatientAge: 55

"I have dealt with depression my entire adult life. I have been on multiple different meds, went through 10 weeks of TMS treatments (didn't work for me personally), done fairly extensive counseling. I’ve kind of lost hope that anything will ever help me to feel better. But I learned about new meds in clinical trials and I'm ready to try."

YP
Depression PatientAge: 60

"I'm taking a medication for anxiety and it's not helping/working. I want to try and find something that would help with my anxiety. My research brought me to clinical trials."

ZD
Social Anxiety PatientAge: 36

"My long history of depression has been met with a long list of trial and error drugs. My current medication (generic Pristiq) has been prescribed for two decades (though I tried several other medications during my last serious episode several years ago. When the episode passed I returned to generic Pristiq. I am interested in a clinical trial because I wonder if I can do something different to more effectively avoid a serious depressive episode and lift the general malaise I often feel."

DD
Depression PatientAge: 62

"I've used SSRIs (Lexapro, Celexa) and they helped a bit but also, truthfully, they've had pretty serious sexual side effects. Depression was already hurting my marriage, and now these drugs continue to paralyze my it. I've heard that psilocybin-based treatments typically have no sexual side effects... I think a clinical trial will let me try safely."

LN
Depression PatientAge: 44
This trial is testing four different medications to find the best treatment for adults with bipolar disorder type 1 who are currently depressed. The medications work by balancing brain chemicals that affect mood. The goal is to help patients recover from depression and stay well.
No Placebo Group

Trial Details

Trial Status:Not Yet Recruiting
Trial Phase:Phase 4

2726 Participants Needed

This trial tests a treatment combining duloxetine and aerobic exercise for adults with knee osteoarthritis and depression. Duloxetine helps manage pain and mood, making it easier for patients to stick to their exercise routine. Duloxetine, an anti-depressant medication, has been recently approved for managing knee osteoarthritis and has shown effectiveness in reducing pain and improving function in patients with osteoarthritis.
No Placebo Group

Trial Details

Trial Status:Active Not Recruiting
Trial Phase:Phase 2
Age:40+

43 Participants Needed

BI 1569912 for Depression

Baltimore, Maryland
This study is open to adults between 18 and 65 years of age with a type of depression called major depressive disorder. The purpose of the study is to find out whether a medicine called BI 1569912 helps people with depression. Participants are put into 4 groups randomly, which means by chance. Three of the 4 groups take different doses of BI 1569912 and 1 group takes placebo. Placebo tablets looks like BI 1569912 but do not contain any medicine. Participants take the tablets once a day for 6 weeks. Participants are in the study for about 2.5 months. During this time, they visit the study site at least 7 times. At the visits, doctors and their staff ask participants about their depression symptoms. At the end of the study, the results are compared between the groups to see whether the treatment works. The doctors also regularly check the general health of participants and take note of any unwanted effects.

Trial Details

Trial Status:Active Not Recruiting
Trial Phase:Phase 2
Age:18 - 65

224 Participants Needed

This trial is testing if psilocybin can help people with both depression and alcohol problems. The drug might improve mood and reduce drinking by changing brain activity. The study involves giving psilocybin to see if it helps. Psilocybin is a naturally occurring psychedelic that has shown promise in treating mood and substance use disorders.

Trial Details

Trial Status:Recruiting
Trial Phase:Phase 2
Age:21 - 65

90 Participants Needed

ALTO-203 for Depression

Pikesville, Maryland
The goal of this clinical trial is to determine the pharmacodynamic effects of ALTO-203 in patients with MDD in a randomized, placebo-controlled, single-dose crossover treatment period. Additionally, safety, tolerability, and PK will be assessed in a subsequent randomized placebo-controlled multi-dose parallel-group treatment period of 28 days. Participants will complete subjective response questionnaires and perform cognitive tasks during the single-dose period, in which participants will receive ALTO-203 25 μg and 75 μg, as well as placebo. During the multiple-dose period, participants will receive either ALTO-203 25 μg, 75 μg , or placebo. Safety will be assessed over the single dose and 28-day multiple dose periods.

Trial Details

Trial Status:Recruiting
Trial Phase:Phase 2
Age:25 - 64

60 Participants Needed

This trial tests if psilocybin, a substance from certain mushrooms, can safely improve depression and quality of life in people with early Alzheimer's or Mild Cognitive Impairment. It works by changing brain activity related to mood. Psilocybin has been studied for its potential to reduce depression and anxiety, particularly in patients with life-threatening conditions.
No Placebo Group

Trial Details

Trial Status:Recruiting
Trial Phase:Early Phase 1

20 Participants Needed

This study seeks to provide insight on psilocybin's effects on mechanisms of chronic pain among patients with co-morbid chronic low back pain and depression (CLBP+D). Participants will receive either a single high-dose of psilocybin (25mg absolute dose) or methylphenidate (40mg absolute dose). Participants will be asked to complete assessments of pain, depressive symptoms, and more general questionnaires regarding the participants experiences during the experimental sessions and the associated enduring effects.
No Placebo Group

Trial Details

Trial Status:Recruiting
Trial Phase:Phase 1
Age:21 - 80

40 Participants Needed

This project will develop a hub-based engagement navigator service for participants and families at high risk for disengagement. The investigators will use robust Participatory Research methods to ensure integration of Coordinated Specialty Care (CSC) program staff, participants, and family members in developing all aspects of and materials for the service, conduct feasibility/acceptability testing in three CSC programs, and use this information to guide refinements. This will be followed by a mixed methods hub wide evaluation using a hybrid type I open cohort stepped wedge design to examine feasibility, acceptability, and effectiveness to improve disengagement outcomes and address target mechanisms.
No Placebo Group

Trial Details

Trial Status:Not Yet Recruiting
Trial Phase:Unphased
Age:13 - 35

555 Participants Needed

This trial compares two treatments for patients with severe depression who are at risk of suicide. One treatment uses electric currents to change brain activity, while the other uses a low dose of a fast-acting drug. The goal is to find out which treatment works better for rapid relief. The drug has recently emerged as a fast-acting alternative for patients with treatment-resistant depression.
No Placebo Group

Trial Details

Trial Status:Enrolling By Invitation
Trial Phase:Phase 4

1500 Participants Needed

Postpartum depression (PPD) affects 10-20% of women, with immigrant Latinas disproportionately affected. PPD prevention and treatment is limited among immigrant Latinas due to an array of structural and cultural factors, suggesting the need to deliver interventions outside of traditional healthcare settings. Virtual interventions have the potential to reduce barriers to mental health services for immigrant Latinas, but there is little research on the effectiveness of virtual interventions to reduce PPD symptoms. Mothers and Babies is an evidence-based group intervention based on principles of cognitive-behavioral therapy and attachment theory aimed at PPD prevention. Mothers and Babies was adapted for delivery via a virtual group format (Mothers and Babies Virtual Group; MB-VG), with a pilot study suggesting good feasibility and acceptability as well as improved mental health outcomes for immigrant Latinas. The proposed project is a Type 1 Effectiveness-Implementation randomized controlled trial among pregnant individuals and new mothers at risk for PPD based on elevated depressive symptoms and/or other established risk factors who are enrolled in early childhood programs across Maryland. A total of 300 women will be enrolled; 150 will receive MB-VG while 150 will receive usual family support services. The project aims to evaluate: 1) the effectiveness of MB-VG to reduce depressive symptoms, prevent onset of PPD, and improve parenting self-efficacy and responsiveness; 2) implementation of MB-VG; and 3) contextual factors influencing MB-VG effectiveness and implementation. Trained early childhood center staff will deliver MB-VG sessions, with intervention participants receiving virtual group sessions via Zoom using any electronic device (smartphone, tablet, laptop). Maternal self-report surveys are conducted at baseline, 1 week, 3 months, and 6 months post-intervention, with structured clinical interviews also conducted at 3- and 6-months post-intervention. The study is the first to deliver a virtual PPD preventive intervention to immigrant Latinas and to evaluate its impact. Given its virtual delivery modality, MB-VG can be easily replicated and scaled to other family support programs and settings serving immigrant Latinas. If effective and implemented broadly, more immigrant Latinas will receive mental health services and fewer will suffer the negative consequences associated with PPD.
No Placebo Group

Trial Details

Trial Status:Recruiting
Trial Phase:Unphased
Age:16+
Sex:Female

300 Participants Needed

Know someone looking for new options? Spread the word

Learn More About Power

Why We Started Power

We started Power when my dad was diagnosed with multiple myeloma, and I struggled to help him access the latest immunotherapy. Hopefully Power makes it simpler for you to explore promising new treatments, during what is probably a difficult time.

Bask
Bask GillCEO at Power
Learn More About Trials

Frequently Asked Questions

How much do Depression clinical trials in Washington, DC pay?

Each trial will compensate patients a different amount, but $50-100 for each visit is a fairly common range for Phase 2–4 trials (Phase 1 trials often pay substantially more). Further, most trials will cover the costs of a travel to-and-from the clinic.

How do Depression clinical trials in Washington, DC work?

After a researcher reviews your profile, they may choose to invite you in to a screening appointment, where they'll determine if you meet 100% of the eligibility requirements. If you do, you'll be sorted into one of the treatment groups, and receive your study drug. For some trials, there is a chance you'll receive a placebo. Across Depression trials in Washington, DC 30% of clinical trials have a placebo. Typically, you'll be required to check-in with the clinic every month or so. The average trial length in Washington, DC for Depression is 12 months.

How do I participate in a study as a "healthy volunteer"?

Not all studies recruit healthy volunteers: usually, Phase 1 studies do. Participating as a healthy volunteer means you will go to a research facility in Washington, DC several times over a few days or weeks to receive a dose of either the test treatment or a "placebo," which is a harmless substance that helps researchers compare results. You will have routine tests during these visits, and you'll be compensated for your time and travel, with the number of appointments and details varying by study.

What does the "phase" of a clinical trial mean?

The phase of a trial reveals what stage the drug is in to get approval for a specific condition. Phase 1 trials are the trials to collect safety data in humans. Phase 2 trials are those where the drug has some data showing safety in humans, but where further human data is needed on drug effectiveness. Phase 3 trials are in the final step before approval. The drug already has data showing both safety and effectiveness. As a general rule, Phase 3 trials are more promising than Phase 2, and Phase 2 trials are more promising than phase 1.

Do I need to be insured to participate in a Depression medical study in Washington, DC?

Clinical trials are almost always free to participants, and so do not require insurance. The only exception here are trials focused on cancer, because only a small part of the typical treatment plan is actually experimental. For these cancer trials, participants typically need insurance to cover all the non-experimental components.

What are the newest Depression clinical trials in Washington, DC?

Most recently, we added Pediatric Palliative Care for Rare Diseases, Engagement Navigator Service for Depression and Pramipexole vs Escitalopram for Depression in HIV to the Power online platform.

What do the "Power Preferred" and "SuperSite" badges mean?

We recognize research clinics with these awards when they are especially responsive to patients who apply through the Power online platform. SuperSite clinics are research sites recognized for a high standard of rapid and thorough follow-up with patient applicants. Meanwhile, Power Preferred clinics are the top 20 across the entire Power platform, recognized for their absolute top patient experience.

Which clinics have received Power Preferred and SuperSite awards recruiting for Depression trials in Washington, DC?

The Depression clinics in Washington, DC currently recognized as SuperSites are: Cenexel CBH (CBH Health) in Gaithersburg, Maryland

What are the current treatment options for depression?

Doctors use a stepped-care approach. First, most people try evidence-based talk therapy (such as CBT or interpersonal therapy), an antidepressant medicine (SSRIs are typical), or both, while also improving sleep, exercise and diet. If symptoms persist, the next “step” is to add or switch treatments—e.g., combining two medicines, adding lithium or an antipsychotic, or using brain-stimulation methods like transcranial magnetic stimulation or, for severe cases, electroconvulsive therapy; newer options such as esketamine nasal spray are reserved for treatment-resistant depression. Working with a clinician to review progress every few weeks and adjust the plan is key to finding the right mix.

When is depression considered severe?

Doctors call a depressive episode “severe” when almost all of the nine core symptoms are present at high intensity, the person’s daily life has largely shut down (can’t work, study, or manage self-care), or there are high-risk features like active suicidal thoughts, a recent attempt, or hallucinations/false beliefs. On common checklists this usually means a PHQ-9 score of 20 or higher, and it signals the need for urgent, comprehensive care—often a combination of medication, psychotherapy, and sometimes hospitalization. If you or someone you know reaches this point, treat it as an emergency and contact a mental-health professional or call/text 988 (USA) or your local crisis line right away.

Is it possible to never be depressed again?

Some people have a single episode of depression and stay well, but the risk of another episode is higher if you stop treatment too soon, have had several episodes before, or still have mild symptoms. You can greatly lower that risk by continuing the treatment that got you better for at least 6–12 months, learning relapse-prevention skills in CBT or mindfulness therapy, keeping regular sleep, exercise, and social routines, and checking in early with a professional if warning signs return. In short, there is no iron-clad guarantee you’ll never be depressed again, but staying on maintenance care and a healthy lifestyle makes long-term wellness much more likely.

What are the top 3 symptoms of depression?

Doctors look first for three core signs: 1) a low or hopeless mood that hangs around most of the day, nearly every day; 2) a marked loss of interest or pleasure in things you used to enjoy (called anhedonia); and 3) big changes in body energy—feeling drained, sleeping or eating far more or less than usual. If any of these have lasted two weeks or longer, it’s time to talk with a health professional, because other symptoms can pile on and treatment works best when started early.

Is depression a chemical imbalance?

No—depression can’t be pinned on one missing brain chemical. Research shows it arises from a mix of factors: how your brain circuits and several neurotransmitters work, your genes, long-term stress, and life circumstances all interact. Because causes differ from person to person, the most effective care is usually a combination of approaches—medication when needed, talking therapies, and lifestyle changes—worked out with your clinician.

How many people have untreatable depression?

Doctors call “untreatable” depression “treatment-resistant depression,” meaning the person has not improved after trying at least two suitable antidepressants. Large studies show this applies to roughly one-quarter to one-third of people with major depression—about 2–3 % of adults overall, or roughly 5–8 million U.S. adults in any given year. Importantly, many still respond to other options such as medication combinations, ketamine/esketamine, transcranial magnetic stimulation, or electroconvulsive therapy.

How to get out of deep depression?

Think of recovery as two tracks that run side-by-side. Track 1: get professional help right away—if you ever feel unsafe call 988 (or your local hotline), and with a clinician discuss proven treatments such as CBT, antidepressant medicine, and, when needed, newer options like ketamine, transcranial magnetic stimulation or electroconvulsive therapy. Track 2: reinforce the medical plan daily with mood-boosting basics—consistent exercise, regular sleep, balanced meals, limited alcohol or drugs, and time with supportive people—because these habits make the treatments work better and give you small, sustainable lifts while you heal.

Why is depression so hard to treat?

Depression is hard to treat because it isn’t a single disease—each person’s symptoms arise from a unique blend of brain chemistry, genetics, stress, medical issues, and life circumstances—so one-size-fits-all therapies rarely work. Without a blood test to guide choices, clinicians must try treatments sequentially, and roughly one-third of people need several steps or a combination of medication, talk therapy, lifestyle changes, or newer options like ketamine or magnetic stimulation before they feel well. The encouraging news is that persistence with a systematic plan and attention to sleep, exercise, and co-existing conditions allows most patients to eventually reach full recovery.

What are unhealthy coping mechanisms for depression?

Unhealthy coping means doing things that give quick relief but actually deepen depression—common examples include using alcohol or other drugs, overeating or not eating, oversleeping or endless screen-scrolling to avoid feelings, cutting or other self-harm, harsh self-talk and rumination, and withdrawing from friends or lashing out at them. These behaviors worsen mood, relationships, and safety; if you notice yourself relying on them, reach out to a trusted person or mental-health professional (or call your local crisis line) and ask about safer skills such as problem-solving steps, scheduled activity, or therapy.

Is it OK to have clinical depression?

Yes—having clinical depression isn’t a personal failing; it’s a common medical illness, and recognising it is the first step toward feeling better. What isn’t OK is to face it alone, because untreated depression can worsen and raise the risk of other problems, whereas most people improve with timely care such as talk therapy, medication, or a combination. If symptoms last more than two weeks or include thoughts of self-harm, book a visit with a primary-care doctor or mental-health professional and, in crisis, call 988 (U.S.) or your local emergency number—effective help and recovery are the norm when treatment is started.

Unbiased ResultsWe believe in providing patients with all the options.
Your Data Stays Your DataWe only share your information with the clinical trials you're trying to access.
Verified Trials OnlyAll of our trials are run by licensed doctors, researchers, and healthcare companies.
Back to top
Terms of Service·Privacy Policy·Cookies·Security